Italy continued their perfect run at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in Thailand, defeating Belgium 3-1 in Phuket to finish first in Pool B.
The victory marks Italy’s 32nd consecutive international win and cements their position as one of the leading contenders for the world crown.
Match Summary
The much-anticipated clash between two unbeaten teams lived up to expectations. Belgium, determined to challenge the Olympic and Nations League champions, put up a spirited fight but managed to take only the third set. Italy’s powerful display, particularly in blocking, proved decisive in their 25-16, 25-16, 21-25, 25-18 triumph.
The Italians produced a staggering 15 kill blocks, compared to just two from Belgium. Paola Egonu once again led by example, firing 28 points, including four blocks and an ace. Rising star Stella Nervini chipped in 14 points, while middle blocker Sarah Fahr contributed 11, sealing the win with a rapid strike through the middle.
Belgium showed resilience, particularly in the third set, as Pauline Martin delivered 16 points and captain Britt Herbots added 15.
Opposite of Italy Ekaterina Antropova praised her teammates:
“We are absolutely happy for this win! Belgium was one of the strongest teams in our pool, and we are very proud of how we managed to handle this match. We can still improve and show more beautiful volleyball.”
Head coach Julio Velasco emphasized the importance of resilience:
“Thinking you’ll always win 3-0 is unrealistic. Matches like this teach us to stay ready for difficulties and respond. The team did well to impose their rhythm again after Belgium’s strong third set. Now a new championship begins — knockout matches will demand even more focus.”
Road Ahead
By topping Pool B with three wins and nine points, Italy now moves on to Bangkok for the Round of 16, where they await the winner of Poland vs Germany. Belgium, finishing second with two wins, will also advance but face a tougher path.
Veteran libero Monica De Gennaro highlighted the team’s mindset:
“We had two great sets, then Belgium raised their level in the third. In the fourth, we reacted strongly, and that will help us as the tournament gets tougher. Now it’s about focusing on the knockout stage, where every match is do-or-die.”
Health Update
During the match, middle blocker Anna Danesi briefly left the court after experiencing a mild episode of tachycardia due to temperature shifts between indoor and outdoor environments. Fortunately, her condition stabilized quickly.
Danesi reassured fans:
“I’m fine. It was just a minor issue linked to the temperature changes. Thank you all for your support — keep cheering for us.”
Match Statistics
- Final Score: Italy 3–1 Belgium (25-16, 25-16, 21-25, 25-18)
- Top Scorer (Italy): Paola Egonu – 28 pts
- Top Scorer (Belgium): Pauline Martin – 16 pts
- Blocks: Italy 15 – 2 Belgium
- Aces: Belgium 5 – 3 Italy
- Brazil Finish Pool Stage Unbeaten
- Italy Dominate Belgium to Seal Top Spot in Pool B
- France Advance to World Championship Round of 16 After Beating Greece
- Historic First Win Keeps Slovenia’s World Championship Dream Alive
- Bošković Injury Update: Serbia Hopes for Star’s Return by Quarterfinals
